Youth Voice and Participation project
Our Participation groups (the Essex Participation group and the EYPDAS Participation group) are made up of young people who are passionate about making a difference. By working together on projects, sharing ideas, and speaking up about the issues that matter to them, members help create positive change for children and young people across Essex. Along the way, they build confidence, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships.
How do I join?
How do I join?
To join the Youth Voice and Participation project, you'll need to have received support from one of The Children's Society East services.
If you're interested in getting involved, just speak to your project worker and they'll help you get started. We'll arrange a chat with you, your project worker, and the Participation Worker so you can find out more about the groups, ask any questions, and see if it's right for you.
If you'd like to join, you're welcome to come along to one of our sessions, meet other members, and see what we're all about.
Our Projects, Our Impact
Over the years, many of our group members have been recognised for their hard work, commitment and leadership, receiving both STAR and Leadership Awards for the positive impact they've made. We are proud of what our young people have achieved and continue to celebrate their success.
Young people have also led and contributed to a range of projects that have helped raise awareness, influence services, and support other young people. For example:
- Inside the Mind: A Guide to Young People's Mental Health – a booklet to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing, encourage open conversations, and help parents and carers better understand young people's wellbeing.
- Roll, Risk, Repeat - a dice-based resource designed to help young people talk about real life risks in a supported way.
- Conferences and Learning events – give presentations, sharing experiences, influencing professionals, and co-facilitating workshops ensuring young people's voices are heard and valued.
- Partnership work with external organisations – influence change and contribute to projects beyond the Children’s Society East
Whether it's creating resources, improving services, running events, influencing decision-makers, or raising awareness about important issues, our young people are at the heart of every project.
Sign up for our Newsletter
If you'd like to receive our occasional newsletter with updates about our services and what is available for young people in your area; you can sign up by clicking this link to be added to our mailing list - join the mailing list.